Today I met Hugh, which is a very nice fellow and we have been several hours talking about the hobby and I have learned a lot from him.
I went there today (from Toowoomba) to trade my big binoculars with the newtonian telescope he listed here for sale. Yesterday we agreed to meet so to inspect each other equipment. Unfortunately it turned out my binoculars are out of collimation and I didn't realized it by the newbie I am....
On other hand, Hugh's telescope is in near mint conditions. Beside some external signs, in my opinion almost un-noticeable, the (pyrex glass) primary mirror is perfect. You can't see any signs that may suggest it is not new.
It due lack of cash Hugh kindly agreed for me paying it by paypal once back home (I have to come back to Birsbane anyway in a few days).
However once I arrived home I found a message from another IIS member, I contacted a couple of weeks ago and which was happy for me going to inspect his Meade 12" Ligthbridge dob on the spot.
I would say this has been a true dilemma. While Hugh's telescope has been very well looked after and it is offered at a very affordable priced, a 12" dob, albeit not in perfect conditions, but offered at relative fair price, not to mention the seller agreed to let me pay for it as I can, is almost a no brain decision.
Sadly and very regretfully I turned down on Hugh offering.
However, the rationale of this message is: if you are after a 2nd hand Newtonian of this size, don't let this opportunity running away. For whom it may concern, it is really that good.
My apologies again Hugh and thanks for understanding my difficult position. I very much appreciated it and look forward to meet you again at Astrofest as we talked about it.
Cheers,
Giorgio
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Mate she is a beauty al right Alex , congrats to you .
